Server Salary in Santa Barbara, CA

Updated on May 09, 2025
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How much does a Server make in Santa Barbara, CA?

The average salary for a Server is $35,145 per year in Santa Barbara, CA.

In Santa Barbara, CA, servers can expect to earn a competitive salary. The average annual salary for a server in this area is around $35,145. This figure can vary depending on experience and the type of establishment. Servers in high-end restaurants often earn more than those in casual dining spots.

Several factors can influence a server's earnings. These include tips, which can significantly boost income. The busier the restaurant, the higher the tips. Servers may also receive additional benefits such as health insurance, paid time off, and retirement plans. These perks can add value to the overall compensation package. Understanding these elements can help job seekers make informed decisions about pursuing a career in the restaurant industry in Santa Barbara.

Server jobs in Santa Barbara, CA

What are the highest paying cities for a Server near Santa Barbara, CA?

Job seekers looking for server positions near Santa Barbara, CA can find competitive salaries in nearby cities. Lompoc, CA, offers the highest average salary of $38,478, making it a top choice for those in the field. Other cities like Goleta, CA, and San Luis Obispo, CA, also provide attractive compensation packages for server jobs. Exploring these nearby locations can open up opportunities for higher earnings while remaining close to Santa Barbara.
Graph displaying highest paying cities salaries for Server jobs near Santa Barbara, CA, highlighting Lompoc, CA with the highest at $38,478 and Carpinteria, CA with the lowest at $33,800.
  1. Lompoc, CA
    Average Salary: $38,478
    In Lompoc, working as a server offers a welcoming atmosphere. Many local restaurants and cafes value friendly service. Opportunities exist in both casual and fine dining settings.
    Find Server jobs in Lompoc, CA


  2. Goleta, CA
    Average Salary: $36,618
    Goleta provides a vibrant environment for servers. With a mix of family-owned eateries and trendy spots, there are plenty of places to gain experience. The community's love for fresh, local food enhances the job.
    Find Server jobs in Goleta, CA


  3. San Luis Obispo, CA
    Average Salary: $35,942
    San Luis Obispo is known for its laid-back yet sophisticated dining scene. Servers here enjoy a mix of casual and upscale dining experiences. The city's rich culture adds to the unique job atmosphere.
    Find Server jobs in San Luis Obispo, CA


  4. Ventura, CA
    Average Salary: $35,692
    Ventura offers a diverse culinary landscape for servers. From beachfront restaurants to downtown eateries, there are many opportunities. The city's growing food scene provides a dynamic work environment.
    Find Server jobs in Ventura, CA


  5. Buellton, CA
    Average Salary: $35,188
    In Buellton, working as a server means being part of a charming and growing community. The town's focus on quality dining makes it a great place to develop skills. Many local spots value excellent customer service.
    Find Server jobs in Buellton, CA


  6. Camarillo, CA
    Average Salary: $34,859
    Camarillo provides a welcoming environment for servers. The city's diverse dining options range from casual cafes to family restaurants. Servers here enjoy a supportive community and a variety of job opportunities.
    Find Server jobs in Camarillo, CA


  7. Montecito, CA
    Average Salary: $34,803
    Montecito offers a serene setting for servers. The town's upscale dining scene provides a refined work environment. Servers here often enjoy a higher level of service and attention to detail.
    Find Server jobs in Montecito, CA


  8. Paso Robles, CA
    Average Salary: $34,791
    Paso Robles is known for its wine country charm and excellent dining. Servers here enjoy a mix of casual and fine dining experiences. The city's focus on quality food and wine enhances the job experience.
    Find Server jobs in Paso Robles, CA


  9. Solvang, CA
    Average Salary: $34,411
    Solvang provides a unique experience for servers. The city's European-inspired dining scene offers a variety of opportunities. Servers here enjoy a vibrant community and a focus on quality service.
    Find Server jobs in Solvang, CA


  10. Carpinteria, CA
    Average Salary: $33,800
    Carpinteria offers a coastal charm for servers. The town's dining scene includes a mix of casual and upscale restaurants. Servers here enjoy a relaxed yet professional work environment.
    Find Server jobs in Carpinteria, CA

What are the best paying companies for a Server in Santa Barbara, CA?

Bon Appétit leads the way for server jobs in Santa Barbara, CA, offering a competitive salary of $50,667. Panda Restaurant Group and Chick-fil-A Restaurants also provide attractive compensation packages. These companies value their servers and offer good earning opportunities.
Graph displaying best paying company salaries for Server jobs in Santa Barbara, CA, highlighting Bon Appétit with the highest at $50,667 and Marriott International with the lowest at $32,200.
  1. Bon Appétit
    Average Salary: $50,667
    Bon Appétit offers rewarding Server jobs with a focus on hospitality. They operate in various locations, including schools, hospitals, and corporate offices. Their servers enjoy excellent benefits and a supportive work environment.


  2. Panda Restaurant Group
    Average Salary: $43,575
    Panda Restaurant Group provides a dynamic environment for Server jobs. They run Panda Express and Hibachi-San locations. Servers here benefit from a fast-paced setting and opportunities for growth.


  3. Chick-fil-A Restaurants
    Average Salary: $39,065
    Chick-fil-A Restaurants offer Server jobs with a focus on customer service. They have locations across Santa Barbara. Servers here enjoy a friendly atmosphere and chances for advancement.


  4. Vons
    Average Salary: $37,970
    Vons provides Server jobs with a strong emphasis on teamwork. They operate multiple grocery stores in Santa Barbara. Servers here benefit from a supportive team and a stable work environment.


  5. San Ysidro Ranch
    Average Salary: $37,875
    San Ysidro Ranch offers Server jobs with a focus on luxury hospitality. They run a resort and spa. Servers here enjoy a high-end work environment and excellent benefits.


  6. Albertsons
    Average Salary: $35,950
    Albertsons offers Server jobs with a focus on customer satisfaction. They operate several grocery stores in Santa Barbara. Servers here benefit from a supportive team and a stable work environment.


  7. Denny's
    Average Salary: $34,000
    Denny's provides Server jobs with a focus on hospitality. They run multiple locations in Santa Barbara. Servers here enjoy a welcoming atmosphere and opportunities for growth.


  8. Senior Resource Group
    Average Salary: $33,422
    Senior Resource Group offers Server jobs with a focus on community service. They operate in various locations. Servers here benefit from a supportive team and a meaningful work environment.


  9. Hotel Californian
    Average Salary: $32,455
    Hotel Californian provides Server jobs with a focus on luxury hospitality. They run a hotel in Santa Barbara. Servers here enjoy a high-end work environment and excellent benefits.


  10. Marriott International
    Average Salary: $32,200
    Marriott International offers Server jobs with a focus on hospitality. They run multiple hotels in Santa Barbara. Servers here benefit from a supportive team and opportunities for growth.

Currently 24,699 Server job openings, nationwide.

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Position
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Server
24,699 Job Openings